Earth and Environmental Science MS - Thesis

California State University - Chico

The Master of Science in Earth and Environmental Science is designed for students who wish to transition from an undergraduate degree to the workforce in professional science, or for students who desire additional research experience to advance their careers or to prepare for additional postgraduate studies. The program consists of 30 units of advanced coursework and directed individual study. Two tracks of study are available including thesis-based and course-based curricula. In the thesis-based track, students carry out an independent research project culminating in a thesis which is presented during an oral defense. In the course-based track, students complete an Earth or environmental science-related internship during their final semester, which will be their culminating experience in the program. The curriculum is composed of several core courses within a discipline followed by courses selected by the student’s individual needs or interest. Our faculty conducts active research in applied ecology, environmental chemistry, atmospheric science, paleontology, hydrogeology, petrology, volcanology, and economic geology. The department maintains high expectations and standards for professional conduct and productivity which prepare students to meet their specific goals.